Malvertisements….Is it ever possible to avoid Malware?

We all do our best to avoid advertisements in general, but with the evolution in online advertising, so comes the various ways hackers can use them to exploit our computers and the networks the reside on. With a recent rise in ‘malvertisements’ we’re forced once again to maintain vigilance in yet another area of possible compromise.

What are malvertisements exactly?

Plain and simple, it is when criminals inject malware or scareware into online advertisements. These malvertisements might be, for example, Flash files that make use of exploits, or use scare tactics that “warn” users about viruses that are on their computer and urge people to click on the link to install fake anti-virus software.

Don’t think they exist on websites you frequent?

These advertising networks have a broader reach across the internet than you might imagine. Malvertisements are considered grave threats, especially since much like website compromises, attacks related to these usually involve trusted sites that users already typically visit without risk of system infection. Even the New York Times’ web site was hit with one of these fake advertisements. Earlier this year, researchers also found malicious ads being displayed in a Web-based email service, directing users to URLs serving PDF exploits.

But it gets worse, you could be doing everything right and stillend up infected. You do all the right things and take all the right precautions right?

You might keep your anti-virus software up to date, always install the latest patches, avoid sketchy programs and web sites, and not fall for any phish…..and still end up with malware.

One of the more popular variations of malvertisements actually takes advantage of your diligence in maintaining your security efforts. Fake virus scans have been a growing tactic to convince people to install malware onto their own computers. This kind of malware is growing in sophistication, and is causing damage to legitimate anti-virus vendors too by reducing people’s trust. Admittedly, it’s a good strategy for the bad guys to take.

When looking at viable options for protecting against malicious efforts such as these, it’s important to utilize a security product with a strong Web reputation technology that can help determine bad links from good ones because let’s be honest….your standard anti-virus software can’t compete nowadays.

Why Join?

Get on board, FREE!

Where can you get strategic technology advice, I mean TRUSTED IT ADVISORY SERVICES, from a seasoned CIO/CTO and technology manager? FOR FREE?

HERE! So why not register? If you are still on the fence, read more below. I thank you in advance for registering to get the full advantage of this FREE site!

So what's the goal here?

My mission is to help business owners, IT Executives and Executive Management make informed technology decisions. That's it - simple!

If you've ever needed more information, clarification of a specific solution or technology, or maybe just an independent 3rd party take on a solution that you IT team is proposing for your business, then this is the place for you! I can give you very technical information, or very non-technical versions of the same information, in many ways. Remember, the goal is for YOU to be able to make informed technology decisions!

If you don't understand a proposal or the technology behind it, then how can you make a decision that you are comfortable with, without a doubt? Information is power, and the power to run and manage your company hinges on the knowledge you have to make strategic business operations decisions. Without all of the information, each decision, whether technical or not, can and will have dramatic effects on the future of your business.

If there is a technology or topic you want discussed, please register and send me a message from the 'Contact' area so I can address them here for all to benefit from, or if you wish, we can keep the discussion 1-on-1.